The Golden Compass

In a wondrous parallel world where witches soar the skies and Ice Bears rule the frozen North, one special girl is destined to hold the fate of the universe in her hands. When Lyra Belacqua becomes the keeper of the Golden Compass, she discovers that her world and all those beyond are threatened by the secret plans of Ms. Coulter. With the help of Lord Asriel and a group of unlikely allies ready to stand at her side, Lyra embarks on an extraordinary quest that celebrates friendship and courage against all odds.

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I love this film. Lyra's portrayal is brilliant, as are the other characters. I didn't go to the theater to watch it when it came out because the reviews were lousy (as the comments reflect). I read the books (twice) but it's been a while. I watched the movie again with the director's commentary just to savor the details. I wish the subsequent movies planned had been made. Perhaps a lack of viewer imagination is to blame for their criticism of this marvelous movie.

I sort of watched this movie for you so now I implore you not to. This movie is so sadly inferior, so absurdly disorderly you'll loathe yourself (after) for taking it out. Considering all the talent the movie featured (Daniel Craig and the beauty that is Nicole Kidman) their talents were a waste as this movie is a tragic and miserable presentation.

A bit of a cheat since they don't even finish the first book. Therefore kind of pointless. (However, since I thought the books degenerated into a whiny diatribe, I won't quibble.) Some decent CGI, but the plot is rather pointless, and any good acting is wasted.

Visually, a stunner but the plot and the ending left me wanting more than the movie could offer. The end especially was unsatisfactory to me; it seemed to lend itself to a sequel that will not be made. sad. too many loose ends and questions left unanswered.

Quotes

Farder Coram: It's an alethiometer. It's a truth measure - a golden compass. It enables you to see what others wish to hide... You can ask any sort of question you can imagine. Once you've got your question framed...
Lyra Belacqua: Can I try?
John Faa: [chuckles]
Farder Coram: One thing I do know, Lyra, you mustn't grasp at the answer. Hold the question in your mind, but lightly, like it was something alive.